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Hope Café & Catering: Valentine’s Menu 2015

Published on Sunday, January 18, 2015 | 2:24 pm
 

Here is a simple yet elegant and fun meal that even the most novice of cooks can prepare. An easy way to show the one that you love how special they really are to you. Three courses that have elements that can be prepared the day before that way you are not spending too much time the day of in the kitchen. The idea is to grab some fresh flowers (Roses), your favorite sparkling drink and of course the special person in your life and make a memory that will last a lifetime.

These recipes are provided by Chef Tony Lancaster from Hope Café & Catering they are tried and approved by his beautiful wife Ann.

Bruschetta

A great appetizer that can be prepared a day ahead of time and best if shared with the one that you love. Perhaps even feeding each other to get the night going in the right direction.

Ingredients
• 1 French baguette cut into 3/4-inch slices
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• 2 T. Balsamic Vinegar
• 4 Fresh Ripe Roma Tomatoes, seeded and diced
• 1/3 cup chopped fresh basil
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions
1. Combine the tomatoes, the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, Balsamic Vinegar, basil, garlic, salt and pepper into a small bowl. (You can make this the day ahead of time and refrigerate.)
2. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place bread slices on a baking sheet. Brush the tops of the bread with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Bake 12 to 15 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
3. Take the baguette slices out of the oven. Divide the tomato mixture evenly over the toasted bread. Serve immediately so your SO has something to munch on while you finish the rest of the meal!

Valentine’s Chicken Penne Pasta

Ingredients
• Rotisserie Chicken (Skinned and Shredded)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 2 cup marinara sauce
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
• 8 basil leaves, julienned
• 1 cup Cremini Mushrooms sliced
• 1 pound penne pasta

Directions
1. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and garlic, about two minutes.
2. Carefully pour in marinara. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook, stirring consistently, for 5 minutes.
3. Add Chicken about ¾ cup per person. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the cream, Parmesan and half the basil. Cook until the cheese has melted and the whole sauce is a creamy rose color.
5. In the meantime, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the directions until al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander.
6. Toss pasta with sauce until combined. Cook for another minute. Garnish with a few shreds of Parmesan and the remaining basil.

Chocolate-Covered Strawberries

Ingredients:
8 ounces chocolate chips (His & Hers) favorite, White makes great visual for this special day
2 teaspoons unsalted butter
1 pound strawberries

Buy Fresh Large Berries with NO soft spots, nice bright green tops / stem.
Wash and pat dry ahead of time.
Line sheet pan with Parchment Paper.
Using a double boiler or bowl over hot water, melt your chocolate chips with the butter. Stir together until smooth.

One at a time, take each strawberry by the stem and leaves, dip into the chocolate as far as you can, shake, tip upside-down, and then set on your drying sheet.

When you have a sheet filled, place it in the refrigerator to dry the berries for 15-30 minutes.

When chocolate is completely solid, put berries in an airtight container and store in a cool place away from a heat source.

By all means this can be prepared ahead of time up to 24 hours, that way you can spend more quality time with the one that you love.

Hope Cafe and Catering is located at 2094 E. Foothill Boulevard, Pasadena. For more information or to quote your next event call them at (626) 449-8757 or visit their website atwww.hopecafeandcatering.com. 

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